The Only Rose
Runrig · The Cutter and the Clan [1987]
In the no-man's zone
There's a bar at the end of the road
Some poor country music
One or two Sixty's songs
This is the place where the night owls sleep
Oh, lonliness
You're a hard earned crust
You're the night at the end of the day
'Cause you pay your dues
On the road you choose
With the price you have to pay
Down the neon aisles
And the twilight miles
Where the world takes comfort in shame
And all I can hear
Is a voice in my ear
And it's calling out your name
Still the silence glows
The four winds blow
And a dark moon rising above
To rest by your side
In the heat of the fire
In the sleep of the night of love
When darkness hangs
On the dirty city
Winter falls on a foreign town
And it's all I can do
To be with you
Tonight as the sun goes down
But I would cross
The ocean wide
I'd walk the mighty foam
If I could lie
In your arms tonight
You're the only rose I know
The only rose I know
The only rose I know
The Only Rose
The Only Rose stands as a poignant song in Runrig's extensive catalogue, appearing on their 1987 album The Cutter and the Clan. During this era, the Scottish band was solidifying its reputation for blending traditional Gaelic folk with contemporary rock influences. The track reflects the group's signature ability to weave emotional depth into their compositions, often exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. As part of a discography that spans decades, this recording captures the band at a pivotal moment of artistic maturity. Runrig's work during the late eighties helped define the sound of modern Celtic rock, influencing countless artists who followed. The song remains a testament to their enduring legacy and their commitment to crafting music that resonates deeply with listeners across generations.